Gate valves regulate the flow of fluid via a pipeline by employing a gate or wedge-shaped disc. A stem that is attached to an actuator, such as a handwheel, gearbox, or motor, raises or lowers the gate. When the gate is fully open, the fluid can freely pass through the electronic flow control valve. Conversely, the flow is entirely stopped when it is fully closed.
Parts of a Gate Valve:
The following is a list of the primary components of a standard gate valve:
Body: The major portion of the pneumatic flow control valve regulates the flow passage.
Bonnet: The valve’s upper portion protects the packing and stem.
Stem: The valve part links the handwheel or actuator to the gate and allows it to open or close.
Gate: The portion of the electronic flow control valve travels up and down to regulate the fluid flow. To ensure a tight seal when the valve is closed, the gate may have a wedge-shaped form. When the valve is closed, the gate or wedge sits against the seat which acts as a sealing surface.
Packing: A substance used to fill the gap between the stem and the bonnet in order to stop leaks, such as graphite or PTFE.
Gland: The area of the proportional flow control valve that seals off the stem’s packing to stop leakage.
Handwheel: A manually operated tool may be used to spin the valve either clockwise or counterclockwise.
Yoke: A structural element that joins the valve body and bonnet.
Stem Nut: A threaded part that the stem may move up and down to open or close the electronic flow control valve.
Stem Guide: An element that directs the stem and maintains the stem’s alignment with the gate.
Backseat: A feature that permits extending the stem without exposing the packing to fluid flow.
Bolts and Nuts: They are used to join the pipeline and the electronic flow control valve body.
Flanges: The valve’s end fittings that are utilized to join it to the pipeline.
Advantages of Gate Valves:
- Gate valves are the best choice for situations that call for high flow rates and little pressure drop because they provide complete and unhindered flow.
- They are perfect for isolation applications because they offer a tight shutdown that prevents any fluid being delivered from leaking.
- Gate valves are appropriate for industrial applications due to their strength and ability to tolerate high temperatures and pressures.
- They are appropriate for situations where a rapid shutoff is required because of their simple design and ease of use.
- These flow regulator valves are low maintenance and can function for many years before needing to be replaced.
Disadvantages of Gate Valves:
- Gate valves can work slowly, particularly if they are big or have been inactive for a long period.
- They can only be used in on/off applications and are not intended for precision control.
- These devices provide complete flow, but they can also result in a substantial pressure drop, particularly if the valve is only half open.
- Due to their design, electronic flow control valves may not be appropriate for use with all fluids, and the material used in their manufacture must be acceptable for the fluid being conveyed.
